Asian Hall of Fame Celebrates AANHPI Heritage Month in Los Angeles, Honors 2026 Laureates and Advances Women’s Empowermen
LAPost / Los Angeles (May 1, 2026) — In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, the Asian Hall of Fame hosted its annual gala at the iconic Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. The event brought together more than 150 leaders from business, culture, and philanthropy to honor community contributions, announce the 2026 laureates, and raise funds for women’s advancement through the WinTESS scholarship program.
Asian Hall of Fame CEO Maki Mae emphasized in her remarks that May represents not only a time of cultural recognition but also a critical moment to advance equity and opportunity.
“AANHPI Heritage Month reminds us that our communities have shaped America’s past and continue to define its future,” she said. “Tonight, we are especially focused on women. The WinTESS scholarship program now supports more than 100 young women across 32 states, providing not only financial assistance but also mentorship and access to professional networks.”
She added that the initiative aims to cultivate future leaders across technology, entertainment, science, and sports. “Our goal is not just to open doors, but to empower these women to lead and give back to their communities.”
Honoring Leadership: Melinda Rogers Receives 2026 Award
Board Chair Melinda Rogers received the 2026 Women’s Award, presented by her brother Sir William Rogers (Sir William Rogers). A key figure in the Union Rock Company, her family has played a major role in infrastructure projects across California.
In her acceptance speech, Rogers reflected on the organization’s mission: “We are truly helping people move forward. This is more than an institution—it’s a platform that brings communities together. Seeing people from different backgrounds collaborate on meaningful work is incredibly inspiring.”
She also highlighted the organization’s recent expansion into Honolulu, as well as new chapters in Seattle and Portland. “The growth of Asian Hall of Fame is exciting and reflects the increasing recognition of our mission. We are also planning a cultural center in Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley to further deepen community engagement.”
A Story of Resilience: Loida Nicolas Lewis Shares Her Journey
2007 Laureate Loida Nicolas Lewis, entrepreneur and author, delivered one of the evening’s most powerful speeches, recounting her journey after the passing of her husband, Reginald Lewis (Reginald Lewis).
“That was the most difficult period of my life. It took me six months to even begin to recover,” she said. “But my faith sustained me—I believed we are never abandoned.”
She described how the company faced severe economic challenges at the time, including a European recession and adverse weather conditions impacting its core business.
“I made a decision to take over the company myself,” she said. “I told myself—if it fails, it is my responsibility; if it succeeds, it means I made the right choices.”
Under her leadership, the company grew from $1.5 billion to $2.2 billion in revenue, successfully paid off its leveraged buyout debt, and ultimately recovered $1 billion in equity.
“Women are fully capable of leading through the most difficult circumstances,” she added. “What we need is courage and conviction.”
Voices from Hawaii: Elevating AAPI Stories
Honolulu-based news anchor Annalisa Burgos spoke about the significance of the organization’s expansion into Hawaii.
“We are working to bring visibility to the many untold stories of excellence within the AAPI community,” she said. “Too often, these achievements go unrecognized, and we are here to change that.”
She emphasized the role of media and cultural institutions in amplifying these narratives. “It’s not just about storytelling—it’s about shifting perception. At its core, this work is about giving back to the community and supporting the next generation.”
Industry Perspective: Growth Through Diversity
Maggie Tseng, CEO of TAO Group, noted the exceptional caliber of this year’s honorees.
“This is a remarkable year. Every laureate represents excellence,” she said. “Being in this environment allows all of us to learn and grow. It is both an honor and a responsibility to be recognized on this मंच.”
She added that such recognition encourages continued leadership and the creation of opportunities for others.
Culture and Community: A Celebration of Heritage
The evening also featured the debut of a “Heritage Fashion Show,” sponsored by Meridien Vacation Homes, showcasing designs that blend traditional and contemporary aesthetics.
Entertainment included a live performance by Maki Mae and a raffle hosted by taiko artist Walter Nishinaka. Prizes included a guitar signed by Taylor Swift and an 18-karat gold ring donated by jeweler Vartan Kazanjian.
Expanding Impact Nationwide
With new chapters in Honolulu, Seattle, and Portland, the Asian Hall of Fame continues to expand its national footprint. Through recognition, scholarships, and community initiatives, the organization is strengthening the visibility and influence of AANHPI communities across the United States.
The gala served not only as a celebration, but as a platform for collective action—bringing together diverse voices to shape a more inclusive and impactful future.
(By Richard Ren / LAPost)
